Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen showcased his athleticism and fearlessness when he leaped over Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker to score his second rushing touchdown of the game. The touchdown put the Bills up by two scores in the fourth quarter, highlighting Allen’s ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs. However, the landing after the leap left Allen with a left hand injury that required attention from athletic trainers on the sideline.
The Injury
After landing on his left hand while bracing himself for impact, Allen was seen with his hand and wrist wrapped by trainers on the sideline. Despite the injury, Allen continued to play the remainder of the game and even led the Bills to a comeback victory from a 17-3 deficit. Although Allen assured reporters that his hand was “fine,” the Bills’ coaching staff remained concerned about his condition.
Following the game, head coach Sean McDermott expressed his concern for Allen’s injury and mentioned that he did not have enough information to provide an update on the quarterback’s status. The team is scheduled for a quick turnaround with a Thursday night game against the Miami Dolphins in Week 2, adding pressure to assess Allen’s injury promptly.
In addition to Allen’s injury, nickel cornerback Taron Johnson left the game early with a forearm injury, forcing backup Cam Lewis to step in and make crucial plays. Defensive back Ja’Marcus Ingram also saw increased playing time in the team’s dime package, contributing to the Bills’ defensive efforts throughout the game.
Despite a shaky start that included a sack-fumble on the first drive, Allen bounced back and delivered an impressive performance. He completed 78.3% of his passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback. Allen’s ability to contribute both through the air and on the ground solidified his status as a key playmaker for the Bills.
Historic Achievements
Allen’s performance against the Cardinals also earned him a spot in the NFL history books. He became the fifth player in league history to record multiple passing and rushing touchdowns in a season opener, a feat that had not been accomplished since Troy Aikman in 1998. Additionally, Allen’s four career games with multiple passing and rushing touchdowns tied him with Hall of Famer Steve Young for the most such games in NFL history.
Josh Allen’s impactful play against the Cardinals showcased his skills as a quarterback and playmaker for the Buffalo Bills. Despite the injury scare and concerns about his hand, Allen’s resilience and determination led the team to a thrilling victory. As the Bills prepare for their upcoming games, the focus will be on monitoring Allen’s health and ensuring his availability for the rest of the season.
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